KKR bounced back to victorious fashion in IPL 2025 when they trampled RR in Guwahati. The first IPL winners, Rajasthan, were at the foot of the standings following successive losses. Criticism of Coach Rahul Dravid mounted for the poor beginning of the team and questions started regarding his tactical choices. Speaking to Cricbuzz, erstwhile New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull questioned the rationale behind sending Shimron Hetmyer at No. 8, though they hold on to him for INR 11 crore. Doull underlined that Hetmyer often bats at No. 4. 3 or 4 in the Caribbean Premier League.
Dravid’s Decision To Bat Hetmyer At No. 8 Sparks Criticism
Rahul Dravid’s choice to send Shimron Hetmyer at No. 8 has caused the former cricketers to criticise RR’ loss to KKR ninthly. Although Hetmyer was retained for INR 11 crore thanks to his batting ability, Simon Doull questioned the placement since he was moved downwards. Responding to Doull, “Why are you shielding Hetmyer? He bats at three or four in Guyana,” and Rajasthan’s bad planning saw them employ their impact sub too early. Before bringing in Shubham Dubey, who had nine out of twelve off balls with little effect, he advised Hetmyer and Jofra Archer should have been used.
Also Read: IPL 2025, CSK Vs RCB: Match Date, Time, Venue, Tickets – All You Need To Know!
Experts Criticize Rajasthan Royals For Underutilizing Hetmyer
Former England cricketer Nick Knight shared these views as well, bashing Rajasthan for not utilizing Hetmyer’s ability. “You have signed him to turn the game. Knight asked, “How much of a difference will he create should he merely be pushed down the order?” Seasoned Indian batsman Ambati Rayudu also thought Rajasthan Royals had missed a chance, stressing Hetmyer’s capacity to play spin well on sluggish pitches. “Even in the Caribbean and CPL, he does quite beautifully on slow music. Rayudu said, “I believe they missed a trick there,” and urged a change of attitude in their batting foray.
